Testimonials
28/2/2013 - SalopLadandLass (Shropshire) - TripAdvisor - Darlington
We went with a coach holiday company for a two day/one night break to Durham/York at a very reasonable price. The hotel itself is quite modern but away from the nearest town so no evening stroll (unless you wanted to go to McDonald's which was just across the way). We were welcomed briefly and given our key card and directions for the lift and our room which turned out to be on the first floor and very comfortable,quiet and clean - once we'd managed to get in as the key-card was a bit temperamental (a problem some of the other guests had as well). The bathroom had a walk-in shower cubicle and toilet whilst the sink was outside the door in the bedroom, obviously because of space restraints. The bed was quite comfortable but the pillows suffered from the all too common hard and compacted polyester-fill so took a while to find a comfortable position. There was an old-type crt television which received Freeview so that wasn't too bad but is a bit outdated now. The tea/coffee tray was quite well-stocked and a packet of nice cookies. A clean set of towels were waiting for us. The evening meal was at six o'clock which gave us very little time to relax as we arrived at five-thirty so a quick change and that was it. The meal itself was very nice, hot and well cooked with a choice of starter, main and dessert followed by tea or coffee. The price of drinks was a bit high so we had an early night. This was just as well as we had been informed that breakfast was going to be at seven-thirty next morning - Sunday morning! So everyone was up at around six (like the previous morning) for the day ahead and our trip home. Breakfast, however, was a very nice, well-cooked buffet style with cereal, fruit juice and traditional fry plus toast and tea/coffee so we all had plenty to start the day. Throughout our short stay the staff seemed pleasant and helpful although apart from mealtimes we didn't meet them much. Overall then, a pleasant stay, if not exactly relaxing, and for one or two nights I could recommend this hotel if you're on the way somewhere. However, I wouldn't suggest a week or so unless you had your own transport as it is a bit isolated which, apart from the high price of drinks, is the reason it only gets a four rating.
25/2/2013 - PGL75 (Thorpe Salvin, Worksop) - TripAdvisor - Darlington
Aston Hotel is a modern, well appointed 3 star hotel situated close to the A1 (M) convenient for Bishop Auckland, Durham and Barnard Castle. The countryside around is beautiful even if the Hotel's surroundings are somewhat utilitarian being close to Motorway Services including a truck stop and a McDonalds.
We had an executive room for our stay (18-20 D=February 2013) which was spacious and well appointed – we loved the shower. The TV was, for a Hotel, simple and intuitive to use. The room was clean but will perhaps need a little redecorating soon. Room service was rapid and effective but we failed to get a broken light bulb replaced (an extra lamp was provided which did the trick – important now that Hotels all seem to be competing to see who can get away with the lowest wattage light bulbs without actually leaving you in the dark).
Check in was painless as was check out. Reception staff were welcoming, smiling efficient and helpful – the staff were a real asset to the hotel and helped make the stay enjoyable. The restaurant provided a reasonable dinner menu of standard items. The food was good, wholesome and hot if uninspired. Breakfast was buffet style and had something for everybody. Service in the restaurant was quick and all requests were met with.
We could recommend it as a comfortable, pleasant, inexpensive base for exploring the area which is well worth exploring – we were particularly impressed with the Bowes Museum at Barnard Castle.
25/2/2013 - RBrukwicki (York) - TripAdvisor - Darlington
We decided on a very last minute trip to Beamish and followed the link from the Beamish website to this hotel - to the Beamish Package. The staff were incredibly helpful, nothing was too much trouble. We asked to make a couple of alterations to our booking and these were met without a problem.
The rooms were a fantastic size, more than enough room for myself, my husband and our 6yr old daughter. The beds were comfortable, we all had a great nights sleep (my daughter even slept in the 2nd morning which is unheard of!). The facilities in the room were great and as many have said before, the shower was amazing.
Breakfast was lovely, plenty of choice. We also had an evening meal and this was fantastic. The food was unbelievable and the service was second to none.
My mum also joined us on our trip (even more last minute than our booking) and she too is keen to return.
23/2/2013 - marwig87 (Birmingham) - Tripadvisor - Darlington
Very good hotel. Had a very good 2 night stay. Staff on reception were very helpful, especially Roxy, who helped us when the room staff had made up our beds as a double instead of two single beds, and when our two room cards wouldn't work. Our deal included a trip to Beamish Living Museum which the staff recommended and was a thoroughly enjoyed day out. The food was really delicious :- Leek and Potato Soap, Chicken and Asparagus Pie and Mash, and Sticky Toffee Pudding. Self service Breakfast was really nice. The shower was really good and powerful, and the shower gel and shampoo dispenser was a lifesaver as i forgot to bring my shower gel with me. The Wi-Fi worked well after the second attempt to connect. Will use this hotel again.
22/2/2013 - johnandmarkuk (Derby) - TripAdvisor - Darlington
Had a lovely 2 night stay while visiting relatives.
The Rambers package we booked was great value, Bed and Breakfast, evening meal and a packed lunch.
The food in the restaurant shouldn't be missed, it's great value and very nice.
Don't let the run down looking A1 services put you off, the hotel itself it lovely and we paid for an executive room which meant we faced away from the A1.
26/2/2013 - dormiegal (Perthshire) - TripAdvisor - Dumfries
We found the Aston around five years ago, returning from a long Atlantic flight, we were so exhausted driving home to Scotland, we thought let's pop into Dumfries and stay overnight.,the Premeir inn was full and the receptionist suggested we try the Aston, on that occasion we stayed five nights, we have been back many times, the most recent stay was weekend of 15th and 16th of February.
The Aston is situated on the Crichton Estate follow signs for the Infirmary,the hotel is not far past it.
The grounds are fantastic, the hotel is quiet and we love the comfy bed and superb power shower, The staff are so pleasant, we are returning again in June and cannot wait till then.
we have had many excellent offers from them, you can find them on itison.com
The area has some superb golf courses and you cannot go wrong with this hotel as a base.
24/2/2013 - Izpants (Lincoln) - TripAdvisor - Dumfries
My mum and I stayed over the weekend for two night. I had looked at the photos beforehand and was hoping it was going to be as good as it looked- it was better. That green bit they've added to the main old building (which a taxi driver informed me used to be a mental hospital, although I'm not sure if he himself might have been a bit dotty) doesn't do the place justice.
The receptionist was friendly and welcoming, she talked us through check in and out times, breakfast times and where we could go for dinner.
Our room was warm, clean and very fancy looking. Of course I tested the bed out first, and it was the squidgiest, comfiest hotel bed I've ever snuggled in. There was a hospitality tray with tea and coffee and biscuits, and spare pillows and towels. There was also a full sized ironing board, iron and hair dryer. The bathroom was spotless, the loo paper folded into pretty points (and scented- my bottom has never felt so special- it's going to start asking me to call it Your Highness). There wasn't anything I wanted that wasn't there.
Breakfast was a serve yourself type thing, although they do seat you, ask you if you want a pot of tea or coffee each, and what kind of toast you want, which they bring over to you. There was fruit, yoghurts, juice, milk, cereal, various cooked things, pastries, muffins and the option to have an omelette or porridge made to order. The second morning we were feeling like greedy piggies and asked for more toast, but they didn't mind! Our tummies were filled and we went off for more exploring.
The ONLY thing I would say they could improve on is their wifi. In the lounge area it's sort of okay, but in the rooms it was so slow that I couldn't even load my favourite news website. It's not that big of a deal as we spent most if the time out exploring, and you can get a decent mobile internet service, but it would have been nice to be able to google local attractions and check our train back home was running on time.
21/2/2013 -JohnJanRed (Bingley) - Tripadvisor - Dumfries
The weather forecast for the weekend looked quite good so on a whim we selected Dumfries as a destination for a short break, as they like to say in the travel trade. Dumfries wasn't all that marvellous, despite its excellent location and river running through it.. The burghers of Dumfries have presumably destroyed most of the charm it once had...
4/3/2013 - Harpers61 - TripAdvisor - Sheffield
Great two night stay great service and very helpful staff , the rooms are very comfortable and clean! Easy access to Sheffield by bus or taxi and the same to meadow hall shopping centre would definitely recommend a visit!
25/2/2013 - BackDoorBigHitter - TripAdvisor - Sheffield
Couldn't ask for anything more. Open end in 2008 but has retained it's sparkle. Evening meal was to die for and reasonably priced. Breakfast buffet was fresh and plentiful. In the middle of an industrial estate however only minutes from the motorway. No need to stay anywhere else in Rotherham.
6/2/2013 - driffield1986 - TripAdvisor - Darlington
Came here on a National Holidays mystery weekend. Best part of the weekend was this hotel . Very clean , very helpfull staff , very good food. Nice selection of home cooked food served by helpfull staff . Will use this hotel again and highly recommend it.
6/2/2013 - curzonparkboy (Chester) - TripAdvisor - Darlington
Rooms were nice with a massive king size bed and a really powerful shower and Wi-Fi worked very well
Food in the restaurant is really good and the service excellent - nothing was too much trouble
Breakfasts were really good, self service and fresh coffee not like some of the hotels
A really nice touch is a pot of coffee by the door so that you can take one "to go"
3/2/2013 - maxine18 (Barnsley) - TripAdvisor - Darlington
Bargain break,food was very good,staff great,this is a modern commercial hotel but dont let this put you off its a great little place with excellent friendly staff and lots to see and do in this area.we will certainly use it again.top marks!!!
16/2/2013 - dougie_f_brown (Paisley) - TripAdvisor - Dumfries
Just back from our second stay at the Aston. Hotel - beautiful building set in peaceful surroundings on the Crichton Estate, ten minute bus ride or £5 taxi ride from centre of Dumfries. Some public areas could do with a little re-furb, but otherwise fine. Rooms - we paid extra for a superior room, and it was well worth it. Spacious, clean, comfortable, well-appointed, with large comfortable bed, and brilliant shower in the bathroom. Food - very enjoyable with a good choice. Well cooked and well presented. Wine list a bit limited for my taste. Staff - Absolutely excellent in all areas. Pleasant, attentive, helpful. Nothing was too much trouble. All in all a very enjoyable, relaxing week-end spent in peaceful surroundings. Good for the soul.
16/2/2013 - EileenMac (Glasgow) - TripAdvisor - Dumfries
I've been going to the Aston for a few years now and can thoroughly recommend it. The food is excellent, try the haggis at breakfast! The rooms are fantastic and the showers are the best I've been in. Staff are wonderful, very attentive and pleasant.
11/2/2013 - sandlcollins - TripAdvisor - Dumfries
Stopped at the hotel for two nights. The room was lovely and had a huge bed. The room and ensuite bathroom was clean. The resturant and bar area was nice, we ate there both nights only complain was the daily specials where the same both times. Overall we had a great tume and it was good value for money.
18/2/2013 - Richard S (Otley) - TripAdvisor - Aston Hotel Sheffield
Providing you are not looking for a City Centre Hotel then this is the perfect choice for Sheffield & Rotherham. The Hotel is modern, clean and very functional. Comfortable Bar/Lounge and dining areas. rooms are very good with large comfortable bed and all required facilities. Hotel and staff could not be more attentive and helpful. We had to move our booking twice due to weather problems, this was dealt with in the most Professional and friendly manner and was not a problem at all. The food for Breakfast and Dinner was very good and again service excellent. My Steak was not cooked as I like it. this was immediately changed with a very friendly smile and appology. I believe that the sign of a good hotel is how good they are at sorting problems and I have full confidence with Aston Hotel in this respect. I have no problem recommending this Hotel and would be very happy to stay again. Other members of our party have already said they will be staying again.
10/2/2013 - jozie_h (Doncaster) - TripAdvisor - Aston Hotel Sheffield
We stayed at the Aston Hotel in Sheffield while going to watch a group at the motor point arena, it was just a standard basic double room and I couldn't believe how good it was for the price. The rooms are very spacious and the bed was massive!!!! The bathroom was to a great standard, and there was soap, shampoo e.c.t. provided!!!
The staff were brilliant, always there to help you, they booked us a taxi which was reliable to the arena and was very cheap only around £4, and was prompt and on time. We will be returning to the hotel in March when we go to watch Olly Murs at the motor point arena.
The only thing which I can say is that we haven't eaten here yet but I am sure that it will be fine as the rest of the service is fantastic.
This is a true review and hope it helps!!!!!!!
8/2/2013 - Treacle_76 (Birmingham) - TripAdvisor - Aston Hotel Sheffield
The hotel is very clean and modern and is well appointed/furnished throughout. All the staff were friendly and helpful. The room was spacious and had everything you would need. The king size bed was probably the most comfortable we have ever slept in and made it very difficult to get up in the morning! The breakfast was excellent with a good selection of hot and cold food. We really enjoyed this hotel and would definitely recommend it for a comfortable and relaxing stay.
27/1/2013 - Paul B (Rotherham) - TripAdvisor - Aston Hotel Sheffield
The room was spacious, clean very warm and well laid out. The decor was very smart and not worn like other hotels.
The restaurant and bar staff very very helpful, the food was a very good standard and reasonably priced on the DBB basis with some small surcharge to add. The bed was comfy beyond belief, a great nights sleep was had. The bathroom/shower facilities were very good.
The cooked breakfast the next morning was fresh and cooked very well with fresh food being brought to the buffet table on a regular basis.
Highly recommended.
3/2/2013 - Keith Donelly Jet2holidays (Leeds) - Direct Review - Aston Hotel Dumfries
I wanted to take the time to send an email to say how impressed I was with the service I received last week when I stayed in your hotel.
My job involves staying in a LOT of hotels in many countries, and wanted to say that it was a pleasure and in particular wanted to mention Duncan who checked us in at reception. Friendly, Polite and engaging sums him up, genuinely making check in a pleasure rather than a chore. I know that credit doesn’t get received as often as criticism, and I hope that you will pass this on to Duncan. Thanks again and hope to stay at the hotel again in the future.
10/1/2013 – Helen (Doncaster) – TripAdvisor – Aston Hotel Darlington
Receptionist was very welcoming & helpful - asking if we wanted to book a table for dinner & if we wanted a wake up call & newspaper in the morning. At the evening meal the young lady who took our order gave excellent service & recommended a meal to me- which was excellent. All staff we saw were very polite & helpful. Our 2 night break included 2 tickets to Beamish Open air Museum which we really enjoyed. The food, service, room & staff were very good & we would definately stay there again. Our room was very comfortable & the facilities in it were very good. Top marks to everyone who works there.
8/1/13 – DavidKen (Glasgow) - TripAdvisor – Aston Hotel Dumfries
Enjoyed a lovely relaxing twixmas dinner B&B break (3 nights) from Dec 28th to Dec 30th. We were in Room 6 on the ground floor - very happy. Bed as ever huge and comfortable. Housekeepers are fab - everything spotless. Power shower is a blast - literally. Love it. All of the staff at Aston Dumfries appear professional and well trained. The breakfast buffet is first class. The evening meals were very good... as was the service. The twixmas break is terrific value for money... this is just a really good hotel, not far from Glasgow, that provides a comfy clean relaxing space for a short break. My only tiny beef is that they didn't have a bottle of my favourite tipple (Canadian Club Rye Whiskey) behind the bar... but a HUGE WELL DONE ASTON! We had a great time and we'll def be back soon we hope xx
1/1/13 – SGWElgin (Elgin) - TripAdvisor – Aston Hotel Dumfries
Stayed here for 3 nights between Xmas and New Year on a “special DBB rate”. Had an Executive room. Room was good- but when we arrived it was also being used as a storage place for 5 collapsible dining tables….not good. However, a quick re-visit to Reception saw a barman arrive at the room within a few minutes of us asking and he moved the tables out. The TV did not get the channels described on the in-room card and the heating/aircon was poor. However, the bathroom was well presented: deep bath and separate power shower. The bed was a super king-size which we both found comfortable. The free Wi-fi signal was “low” but it worked and I was able to use my laptop in the room.
We thought the staff were efficient and friendly- a credit to the hotel. Service was very good all the time we were there. Unfortunately the same could not be said of the food. The choice was fine- but the quality on the first two nights (Thursday and Friday) was poor. On Saturday night it was greatly improved and just about made the overall eating experience there acceptable. However, if we had been paying the full rate I would have been extremely disappointed and rather cross; as it was, as an overall stay I consider we had reasonable value.
31/12/12 – minf (Sheffield) – TripAdvisor – Aston Hotel Sheffield
Never stayed here or even thought of it. However this is a really good value hotel and will definately stay again. Stayed for 2 nights and really enjoyed it. The rooms are a good size. Nicely fitted and massive comfortable bed. Big shower room with excellent power shower.Tea and coffee making facilities and biscuits. Plenty of storage. Bar area is cosy with lovely sofa's to sink into. Bar prices typical hotel proces. Had an evening meal chose from set menu. Very nice. Breakfast also good with attentative staff. Reception staff really friendly and helpful. Good location for getting out and about. Really cannot fault and the price was a bargain at £102 for 2 nights.
22/12/12 – sevke (London) – TripAdvisor – Aston Hotel Sheffield
We've stayed here twice now, and plan to continue using this hotel as or base when visiting family in the area. The building itself won't excite you, but the rooms are large and well-appointed, with coffee making facilities, pristine en-suites, freeview tv channels and enough space to really spread your stuff! Be aware there is no fridge.
The staff are friendly and accommodating, and you can arrange (at a price, of course) for a bottle of bubbly to be waiting in your room on your arrival, which I think is a nice touch.
Unexpectedly, we ended up eating in the spacious restaurant last night, after other plans fell through. It turned out to be a good thing - good range on the menu, for all six members of our party, including a child's menu. Choices included - chicken makhani, lamb shank, sea bass, steak, fish and chips and sage-topped pork fillet. The lounge area, complete with large comfy sofas made for a cosy area in which we did our Christmas present swap at the end of the evening.
Recommended :)
21/12/12 – Tootsies1 (Lockerbie) - TripAdvisor – Aston Hotel Dumfries
Well after my bad experience last time i reviewed, i have been back several times and i have to say the service has drastically improved, the food is excellent and doesnt take an age to arrive.
The restaurant is so handy for me when im at college as its literally right round the corner.
Food has been excellent, service has been good too.
I will be back soon.
16/12/12 – jassyblue80 (Birmingham) – TripAdvisor – Aston Hotel Sheffield
Stayed here after going to the Pulp gig at the motor point arena! It is a great location if visiting that venue!
We arrived around 3pm and checked in with ease. The twin room was large enough, warm, comfy & clean.
On check in we had requested the football match to be screened in the bar at 5pm. On arrival in to the bar the bar man promptly changed channel and we enjoyed a couple of beers whilst watching the match.
Straight after a taxi was ordered and arrived straight away. Then off to an amazing gig.
The next morning we had the buffet breakfast. Which is great value for money.
All in all a great stay, at a reasonable price.
I'd stay here again.
16/12/12 – Cuddles1966 (Perth) – TripAdvisor – Aston Hotel Darlington
Mum, special needs daughter and i stayed here unfortunately just overnight as we were attending a concert in newcastle on the 15th december our arrival part of a coach party from north east scotland arrived and were quickly allocated our rooms no delays, we had a lovely twin and double room which were very spacious,clean and very comfortable we had a light meal before we got ready and the waiting and bar staff were excellant and the food was good. breakfast was a filling full english excellant again. Waiting staff were very quick at seeing to your needs. our departure to wasnt pushy like some places the whole experience was very good just a shame it was just one night
3/12/12 – Alison190813 (Beverley) - TripAdvisor – Aston Hotel Darlington
From walking across the entrance booking in to booking out my experience was excellent. The Rooms spacious, well appointed, the huge King sized bed very comfortable. The shower was the best I have ever come across with a heated shower room floor. The food was well presented, the breakfast although busy was a delight. There were all the usual amenity’s TV, hospitality tray, even free Wifi, I can highly recommend this hotel, and found nothing negative at all.
The Hotel is situated in a quiet location just off the A1 only a short hop from Darlington and Durham, ideally situated for visits to either location or indeed a stop off for a longer journey further afield.
2/12/12 – Mike L (Huddersfield) - TripAdvisor – Aston Hotel Darlington
Based on some positive Tripadvisor reports I took the option of saving some money and using the Aston Hotel to subsidise a special evening at Rockcliffe Hall. The room was spacious and clean with a decent shower room. The bed was comfortable and the hotel suprisingly quiet; not in a deserted way-just not noisy. Coffee making facilities were good and the staff were prepared to provide top ups. We did spend a fair bit at Rockcliffe so the fact that we could pop down the McD's next door for breakfast was also a bonus feature.
15/11/12 – mackemD (Sunderland) - TripAdvisor – Aston Hotel Dumfries
We stayed at the Aston for a friends wedding and would recomend it highly. Our room was very spacious and comfortable. The buffet breakfast was tasty with plenty of choice. We were lucky to have good weather so we could have a few walks around the Crichton estate, which was lovely. The wedding venue and the church were stunning and we had an excellent meal.


